Warriors Split Doubleheader Against Dakota State

Midland University earned a 9-2 victory in Game 1 before falling 8-4 in Game 2 against Dakota State University.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Midland University hosted Dakota State University in a nonconference baseball doubleheader on Wednesday afternoon at a neutral site in Lincoln, Nebraska. The Warriors split the two games, winning the first 9-2 before losing the second 8-4.

Why it matters

The doubleheader was originally scheduled to be played in Madison, South Dakota, but was moved due to inclement weather. The split result leaves Midland with a 2-8 record on the season as they prepare to face a ranked opponent next.

The details

In Game 1, Midland jumped out to an 8-0 lead after two innings, highlighted by a bases-clearing double and a grand slam. Dakota State scored single runs in the third and seventh innings, but the Warriors held on for the 9-2 victory. Owen Kelley earned the win on the mound for Midland. In Game 2, the teams traded leads early on, but Dakota State pulled away with a three-run home run in the fifth inning and added three more runs in the seventh to win 8-4.

  • The games were originally scheduled for Friday and Saturday in Madison, South Dakota, but were moved due to inclement weather.
  • The doubleheader took place on Wednesday afternoon in Lincoln, Nebraska.

The players

Midland University

A university located in Fremont, Nebraska that competes in the Great Plains Athletic Conference.

Dakota State University

A public university located in Madison, South Dakota that competes in the North Star Athletic Association.

Owen Kelley

The starting pitcher for Midland University in Game 1, earning the victory.

Jimmy Martinez

A player for Midland University who had 2 hits and scored 2 runs in Game 2.

Cooper Benecke

A player for Midland University who had a bases-clearing double and a grand slam in Game 1, as well as a solo home run in Game 2.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Midland (2-8) will now prepare to travel to West Palm Beach, Florida, for a four-game series against No. 24 Keiser University (6-4) from Feb. 27–March 1.

The takeaway

The split doubleheader result leaves Midland with a 2-8 record on the season as they prepare to face a ranked opponent next, highlighting the challenges the team has faced early on but also their ability to compete against tough competition.